Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mitsubishi to debut Concept G4 sedan in Bangkok]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/mitsubishi-to-debut-concept-g4-sedan-in-bangkok/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/mitsubishi-to-debut-concept-g4-sedan-in-bangkok/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/mitsubishi-to-debut-concept-g4-sedan-in-bangkok/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



With the Bangkok Motor Show coming up at the end of this month, Mitsubishi is giving us a teaser of a new concept vehicle called the Concept G4. Standing for "Global 4-door," the G4 shows what Mitsubishi has planned for its global compact sedan, which is known as the Mitsubishi Lancer in most parts of the world.

This single sketch doesn't provide too many details about the new concept, but we can see cues like the oversized headlights, a six-sided grille, vertical foglight bezels and sharp body lines. From what we can tell of the teaser, Mitsubishi might be moving away from the in-your-face, gaping-grille design introduced on the current Lancer, but we're also getting a lot of Kia and Nissan vibes. This will be Mitsubishi's third concept vehicle to debut this month following the Concept CA-MiEV and Concept GR-HEV we saw in Geneva.

In a press release posted below, Mitsubishi says that this car will be powered by a 1.2-liter MIVEC engine paired to a continuously variable transmission, and that many aspects of the car's development will help reduce weight.

Continue reading Mitsubishi to debut Concept G4 sedan in Bangkok

Mitsubishi to debut Concept G4 sedan in Bangkok originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mitsubishi g4 conceptbangkok 2013bangkok motor showlancermitsubishimitsubishi global compact sedanFri, 08 Mar 2013 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20492999/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/mitsubishi-to-debut-concept-g4-sedan-in-bangkok/20492999/article-detail.xml 20492999 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-mitsubishi-concept-g4-sedan-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-mitsubishi-concept-g4-sedan-628.jpg <![CDATA[Limited-edition Mitsubishi 311RS Evo X coming to Minneapolis Auto Show [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/limited-edition-mitsubishi-311rs-evo-x-coming-to-minneapolis-aut/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/limited-edition-mitsubishi-311rs-evo-x-coming-to-minneapolis-aut/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/limited-edition-mitsubishi-311rs-evo-x-coming-to-minneapolis-aut/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Limited Edition Mitsubishi 311RS Evo X - shallow front three-quarter view

It's not terribly often that we have news to report coming out ahead of the Minneapolis Auto Show. We say that not to disparage the Twin Cities, which are lovely, but new product reveals are few and far between for the show. This year, however, it seems that event will play host to the debut of a rather special limited edition Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. Though not coming directly from the Mitsu factory, we think the 311RS shows loads of potential for Evo fanatics.

The 311RS is the brainchild of circuit racer Ryan Gates, who has apparently spent the last three years developing what he believes is an Evo perfect for both racing and road driving. Starting life as a bog-standard Evo X, the Gates team has swapped out the factory intake, intercooler and exhaust system for more potent AMS pieces; resulting in output figures of 353 horsepower and nearly 359 pound-feet of torque. A new suspension from JRZ, brakes from Girodisc and 18-inch custom Rays wheels shod with high-performance Nitto tires represent significant updates to the underpinnings, as well.

Of course, the 311RS is also rocking a full body kit, too, with a more aggressive front air dam and a subtle lip added on to the stock rear wing. The blue and white racing livery, with matching blue wheels, looks racy without being too childish, we think.

Just 11 examples of the 311RS will be offered for sale, with the first car going to leading dealer White Bear Mitsubishi in White Bear Lake, MN. We're told that the car will retail for $49,000; that's a big jump over the roughly $35K price tag of a base GSR, but a much smaller one over the $46k tag on a fully loaded MR. Find more complete information about the 311RS, in the press release information, below. You'll also find a video on the "making of" a longer 311RS film (which hasn't been released yet), as well. Enjoy.

Continue reading Limited-edition Mitsubishi 311RS Evo X coming to Minneapolis Auto Show [w/video]

Limited-edition Mitsubishi 311RS Evo X coming to Minneapolis Auto Show [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mitsubishi 311rs evolution x311rsevoevo xevolution xlancerlancer evolutionminneapolis auto showmitsubishimitsubishi evomitsubishi evolutionryan gatesvideoFri, 08 Mar 2013 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20494730/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/limited-edition-mitsubishi-311rs-evo-x-coming-to-minneapolis-aut/20494730/article-detail.xml 20494730 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-mitsubishi-311rs-evolution-x-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-mitsubishi-311rs-evolution-x-628.jpg <![CDATA[These are your top 10 worst-selling vehicles of 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/these-are-your-top-10-worst-selling-vehicles-of-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/these-are-your-top-10-worst-selling-vehicles-of-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/these-are-your-top-10-worst-selling-vehicles-of-2012/#commentsFiled under:



Despite 2012 being the best year of auto sales this country has seen since 2007, not every vehicle got an equally large share of the sales pie. Some barely got a sliver, as evidenced by this year's list of the top 10 worst-selling vehicles of 2012.

We've dug through sales data from every automaker to come up with this year's list and, like last year, we've set some parameters to ensure it includes legitimately bad-selling vehicles.

The first parameter is a starting MSRP under $100,000, which automatically excludes what's parked in most one-percenters' garages. We're also excluding vehicles cancelled in 2012, even if they garnered sales through the end of the year while dealerships sold off remaining inventory. This includes models like the Mitsubishi Eclipse, Mercedes-Benz R-Class and last year's worst-seller, the Acura RL. Next, vehicles are considered as they are reported by the automaker, which means that, while sales of the Murano CrossCabriolet were probably low enough to make the list, because Nissan reports only one number for all Murano sales, it was excluded. Cadillac, however, reports sales of the Escalade EXT separately from the Escalade, hence its repeat appearance.

Finally, there was the question of whether or not eligibility should be given to Suzuki vehicles, as the brand announced in November that it would end sales in the US as soon as its current inventory ran out. We decided Suzuki vehicles should be included as the brand was offering 2013 models at the time of the announcement, and as far as we can tell, inventory levels remained high enough to satisfy demand through the end of the year.

Without further ado, below are the top 10 worst-selling vehicles of 2012.

Continue reading These are your top 10 worst-selling vehicles of 2012

These are your top 10 worst-selling vehicles of 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012acuraappsaudibmwc30equatorescaladeescalade extgt-rgtrgtr nurburgring timeilancerlancer sportbackmitsubishinissansubarutribecattvolvoworst selling carsworst-selling vehiclesworst-selling vehicles of 2012z4zdxMon, 07 Jan 2013 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20417056/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/07/these-are-your-top-10-worst-selling-vehicles-of-2012/20417056/article-detail.xml 20417056 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/mitsubishiikbb10best20121-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/mitsubishiikbb10best20121-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander Sport named 2013 IIHS Top Safety Picks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/mitsubishi-lancer-outlander-sport-named-2013-iihs-top-safety-pi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/mitsubishi-lancer-outlander-sport-named-2013-iihs-top-safety-pi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/mitsubishi-lancer-outlander-sport-named-2013-iihs-top-safety-pi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has added a pair of Mitsubishi models to its ever-growing list of 2013 Top Safety Picks, giving the prestigious safety award to the 2013 Outlander Sport and Lancer (sedan and Sportback). Both models make a return visit to the list, but with 117 cars now on the list and IIHS crash standards getting tougher just about every, this is big news for the small Japanese automaker.

Among small SUVs, the Outlander Sport is just one of nine vehicles in this segment to be named a Top Safety Pick, while the Lancer's name is surrounded by 28 other compact coupes, sedans and hatchbacks in the highly competitive small car segment. The Top Safety Pick status does not apply to the Lancer's Ralliart or Evolution variants, and neither the Outlander Sport nor the Lancer were subjected to the new small frontal offset crash test that would have resulted in the new Top Safety Pick+.

Scroll down for Mitsubishi's press release.

Continue reading Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander Sport named 2013 IIHS Top Safety Picks

Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander Sport named 2013 IIHS Top Safety Picks originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mitsubishi lancer2013 mitsubishi outlander sportcrash safetyiihsiihs top safety pickinsurance institute for highway safetylancermitsubishioutlander sportThu, 27 Dec 2012 14:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20411498/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/27/mitsubishi-lancer-outlander-sport-named-2013-iihs-top-safety-pi/20411498/article-detail.xml 20411498 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-sport-1356568229_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-sport-1356568229.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mitsubishi Lancer to shrink]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/2014-mitsubishi-lancer-to-shrink/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/2014-mitsubishi-lancer-to-shrink/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/2014-mitsubishi-lancer-to-shrink/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The aging, oft-forgotten Mitsubishi Lancer won't get a replacement until sometime in 2014, but a new report states that the next-generation model could be a relatively drastic departure from the car you see here. Mitsubishi Motors Corporation President Osamu Masuko told Australian site The Motor Report that the new Lancer will be smaller than the current car, going in a different direction than the vast majority of other automakers.

"The new Lancer will be a very new car, and will be sized somewhere between the current model and its predecessor," Masuko-san told The Motor Report.

There are both pros and cons to this decision. On the plus side, a smaller car means the Lancer will likely have a weight advantage over other vehicles in its class. That said, Mitsubishi will need to find ways to maximize interior space and create efficient packaging in order to still have its compact sedan remain competitive with strong offerings like the Hyundai Elantra, Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus and so on.

The Motor Report also suggests that Mitsubishi could use turbocharged and diesel engines in its new Lancer lineup, though it's unclear what exactly will be available in the North American market. When asked, a spokesperson for Mitsubishi told Autoblog that the US bureau "cannot confirm any plans on the Lancer for this market at this time."

2014 Mitsubishi Lancer to shrink originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lancermitsubishiWed, 24 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20356788/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/24/2014-mitsubishi-lancer-to-shrink/20356788/article-detail.xml 20356788 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/02-2011-mitsubishi-lancer-es_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/02-2011-mitsubishi-lancer-es.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Finds of the Day: Brand-new, never registered 1987 Shelby Dodge Lancer and 1989 Shelby Dakota]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/11/ebay-motors-1987-shelby-dodge-lancer-1989-dakota-time-warp-survivor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/11/ebay-motors-1987-shelby-dodge-lancer-1989-dakota-time-warp-survivor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/11/ebay-motors-1987-shelby-dodge-lancer-1989-dakota-time-warp-survivor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

1987 Shelby Dodge Lancer - front three-quarter view

1989 Shelby Dodge Dakota - rear three-quarter view, on castorsThese days, the Shelby name is synonymous with Ford Mustang performance, but it wasn't always so. Carroll Shelby spent plenty of time decking the halls of Chrysler with quick versions of otherwise plebeian models, including the Dodge Dakota and Lancer. Most of those machines have returned to the earth in spectacular fashion by now, but it looks as if one owner in Pennsville, New Jersey sealed two of the machines away from the world to preserve them for future generations. Behold what could very well be the cleanest and most original 1987 Shelby Lancer and 1989 Shelby Dakota on the face of the planet.

According to their eBay Motors listings, these machines have never been registered, and both still retain their original dealer markings, right down to the protective plastic on the seats and steering wheels. The owner even has the original batteries for both vehicles. What's more, both are #6 in their respective production lines, making them the first civilian models sold. The Lancer has but 22 miles on its odometer, and the Dakota 23. Right now, both relics have Buy It Now prices of $29,000, but the Shelby Dakota is the only one of the pair with a bid.

Of course, the real tragedy here is that the owner has effectively relegated these vehicles to museum duty. Depending on how they've been maintained, the damage done by sitting for years on end could require serious effort and dollars to erase. As of the time of writing, the truck is up to a smidge over $15,400 with three days left on the auction.

eBay Finds of the Day: Brand-new, never registered 1987 Shelby Dodge Lancer and 1989 Shelby Dakota originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1987 shelby dodge lancer1989 shelby dodge dakotadakotadodgeebayebay find of the dayebay motorslancershelbyshelby dodge dakotashelby dodge lancersurvivortime warptimewarpThu, 11 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20347372/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/11/ebay-motors-1987-shelby-dodge-lancer-1989-dakota-time-warp-survivor/20347372/article-detail.xml 20347372 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/shelby-lancer-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/shelby-lancer-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi adding AWD Lancer SE to lineup this fall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/mitsubishi-adding-awd-lancer-se-to-lineup-this-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/mitsubishi-adding-awd-lancer-se-to-lineup-this-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/mitsubishi-adding-awd-lancer-se-to-lineup-this-fall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer

Yoichi Yokozawa, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America, recently confirmed to Automotive News that a new Lancer SE will be arriving this fall as a 2012 model. The SE will feature the all-wheel drive of the Ralliart and Evolution models, but will be paired with the naturally aspirated engine found in the current DE, ES (pictured) and GTS trims.

Official details and pricing information has not been released as of this writing, but Automotive News reports that the SE will sticker for approximately $20,000. Mitsubishi says that the SE should account for 15 to 20 percent of all Lancer sales.

Adding the SE trim to the Lancer lineup is part of Mitsubishi's plan to someday sell 100,000 units in the United States again. The last time Mitsubishi sold over 100,000 vehicles in this market was 2007, when sales totaled 128,993.

Mitsubishi adding AWD Lancer SE to lineup this fall originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mitsubishi lancer seall-wheel driveawdlancerlancer semitsubishiTue, 09 Aug 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20013248/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/09/mitsubishi-adding-awd-lancer-se-to-lineup-this-fall/20013248/article-detail.xml 20013248 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/02-2011-mitsubishi-lancer-es630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/02-2011-mitsubishi-lancer-es630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi promises to "evolve" Lancer Evolution, lowers price in UK]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/19/mitsubishi-promises-to-evolve-lancer-evolution-lowers-price-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/19/mitsubishi-promises-to-evolve-lancer-evolution-lowers-price-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/19/mitsubishi-promises-to-evolve-lancer-evolution-lowers-price-i/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR - Click above for high-res image gallery

After a strong backlash from its announcement that the Lancer Evolution would be no more after its 10th generation, Mitsubishi has backpedaled on its decision to kill the car. The automaker promises that the Evo X will live out its life cycle as planned, and will continue to evolve in the future, but that may mean going a slightly different direction.

Mitsu is trying to balance the necessity to move toward more eco-friendly conveyances while not alienating the huge fan base that the Evo has cultivated since the first-generation car was introduced in 1992.

Along with its promise to keep building Evos and find a way for them to fit in to Mitsubishi's new green lineup, the company has lowered the price of entry for the Evo X to £29,699.00 in the UK. While there's no word yet on what the new Evos may wind up looking or behaving like, there's at least a tenuous promise that the car will continue.


Gallery: 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution


[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading Mitsubishi promises to "evolve" Lancer Evolution, lowers price in UK

Mitsubishi promises to "evolve" Lancer Evolution, lowers price in UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 mitsuishi lancer evolutionevolutionlancermitsubishiSat, 19 Mar 2011 18:37:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19885066/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/19/mitsubishi-promises-to-evolve-lancer-evolution-lowers-price-i/19885066/article-detail.xml 19885066 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/2011-mistubishi-lancer-evolution-mr-1300551523_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/2011-mistubishi-lancer-evolution-mr-1300551523.jpg <![CDATA[Followup: Mitsubishi unconvincingly addresses Evo death rumors via Facebook <i>*UPDATE</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/03/followup-mitsubishi-unconvincingly-addresses-evo-death-rumors-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/03/followup-mitsubishi-unconvincingly-addresses-evo-death-rumors-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/03/followup-mitsubishi-unconvincingly-addresses-evo-death-rumors-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR - Click above for high-res image gallery

Will the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X be the last Evo ever built? Rumors to that extent were flying fast and furious across the Internet yesterday. Mitsubishi has decided to address these claims by way of a post on its Facebook page:

Further to some comments published in the press recently, production of the current Lancer Evolution continues as planned. As for its successor, regulations and market feedback will dictate its engineering package & architecture. Stay tuned.

So relax Evo fans, this answer should make you feel... well, actually, stay worried - the above statement really doesn't answer anything about the model's future.

*UPDATE: A slightly longer statement attributed to Mitsubishi on the subject has been found here.


Gallery: 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution


[Source: Mitsubishi via Facebook, Twitlonger]

Followup: Mitsubishi unconvincingly addresses Evo death rumors via Facebook *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evoevo deadevo xevolutionfacebooklancerlancer evolution xlast evomitsubishimitsubishi evolution deathmitsubishi lancer evolution xThu, 03 Mar 2011 10:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19866650/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/03/followup-mitsubishi-unconvincingly-addresses-evo-death-rumors-v/19866650/article-detail.xml 19866650 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/09-evo-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/09-evo-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Mitsubishi official says Evo franchise is dead]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/report-mitsubishi-official-says-evo-franchise-is-dead/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/report-mitsubishi-official-says-evo-franchise-is-dead/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/report-mitsubishi-official-says-evo-franchise-is-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Gayu Eusegi, head of global product development for Mitsubishi, the Lancer Evolution X will be the last Evo the Japanese automaker ever builds. Eusegi says the move is part of a shift in strategy to put the company's product focus and ethos on leadership in EV technology.

To that end, Autocar indicates that Mitsubishi will release eight fully-electric or hybrid-electric cars by the time 2015 rolls around, and make a grab for a big portion of the CO2-reduction market share. It goes without saying that the fun-yet-fuel-swilling Evo just doesn't fit that mindset, particularly since it apes a rally car that no longer exists.

Despite the Evo's huge popularity, Mitsubishi apparently isn't scared of the step and says it's confident that consumers will glom on to the idea and rally behind the brand. By killing the Evo, they're making their intentions plain to an increasingly environmentally-conscious car-buying public.

Eusegi killed dead any notion that the brand would roll out a performance-oriented hybrid as well. "Maybe the world can change, and maybe someday we can do a motor race by electric vehicles. Maybe then we can enter the market agian," he said.

This report of the Evo's death would seem to stand in contrast to multiple reports that an Evo XI is in the works with a hybrid drivetrain. We're taking this latest Autocar missive with a few grains of salt, as we can see how Eusegi may have simply meant that an Evo that relies exclusively on internal combustion is dead - a hybrid Evo would seem to offer a nice technological bridge to Mitsubishi's more electrically minded future. Hat tip to Dennis!


Gallery: 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution


[Source: Autocar]

Report: Mitsubishi official says Evo franchise is dead originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Mitsubishi Lancer evolutionevo xevolutiongayu eusegilancerlancer evolutionmitsumitsubishimitsubishi evoWed, 02 Mar 2011 12:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19864860/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/02/report-mitsubishi-official-says-evo-franchise-is-dead/19864860/article-detail.xml 19864860 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/2011-mistubishi-lancer-evolution-mr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/2011-mistubishi-lancer-evolution-mr.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Mitsubishi building crossovers and sedans Stateside in two years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/18/report-mitsubishi-building-crossovers-and-sedans-stateside-in-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/18/report-mitsubishi-building-crossovers-and-sedans-stateside-in-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/18/report-mitsubishi-building-crossovers-and-sedans-stateside-in-t/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

Despite posting a three-percent increase in sales year-over-year in 2010, Mitsubishi is struggling here in the United States. The vast majority of the products in the automaker's portfolio are slow-sellers, with only the Lancer and Outlander families gaining much in the way of high praise from both the media and consumers alike. Still, Mitsubishi has plans to soldier on, and a report from Automotive News states that the Japanese automaker is looking to shift production of some of its sedans and crossovers to the United States within the next two years.

Currently, the automaker's plant in Normal, Illinois builds the Galant, Endeavor and Eclipse, but these vehicles are scheduled to be phased out by 2013. Moving forward, Mitsubishi's new family of vehicles based on the platform that underpins the Lancer, Outlander and Outlander Sport - vehicles that are currently built in Japan - will be assembled in Illinois. Currently, Mitsubishi has not cited any plans to create replacements for any of the outgoing models currently built here in America.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport


Photos copyright (C)2011 Damon Lavrinc / AOL

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Report: Mitsubishi building crossovers and sedans Stateside in two years originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>illinoislancermanufacturingmitsubishioutlanderoutlander sportTue, 18 Jan 2011 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19804034/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/18/report-mitsubishi-building-crossovers-and-sedans-stateside-in-t/19804034/article-detail.xml 19804034 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/01outlandersportfd2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/01outlandersportfd2011.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi EVO gains sportier sounding exhaust, new equipment for 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/mitsubishi-evo-gains-sportier-sounding-exhaust-new-equipment-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/mitsubishi-evo-gains-sportier-sounding-exhaust-new-equipment-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/mitsubishi-evo-gains-sportier-sounding-exhaust-new-equipment-fo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mitsubishi has modestly warmed over its already hot Lancer Evolution for 2011. For the new model year, buyers can look forward to a host of styling and tech treats. As in the past, the rally heathen will be available in both GSR and MR trims, but the Japanese automaker is throwing in the company's new FUSE system for handling calls via Bluetooth and integrating music players. Even better, those gadgets should be controllable by voice command. In addition, the Lancer Evolution will now ship with a real-time traffic system when equipped with navigation. But let's be honest, no one is buying the Evolution for the infotainment.

Fortunately, Mitsubishi has also thrown in a few other changes for 2011, including a re-tuned exhaust system. The company isn't saying whether or not the new pipes add any horsepower to the equation, but the press release does indicate that the car now has a more throaty bark. In addition, Mitsu has effected some subtle aero tweaks. In shoutier GSR trim, that continues to mean one very large, very high-profile wing (now with slightly tweaked uprights), while MR continues to make use of a more subtle lip spoiler. Hit the jump for the press release and check out the gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution


[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading Mitsubishi EVO gains sportier sounding exhaust, new equipment for 2011

Mitsubishi EVO gains sportier sounding exhaust, new equipment for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Mitsubishi Lancer EvolutionEVOEVO GSREVO MREvolutionevolution XLancerLancer EvolutionMitsubishi Lancer EvolutionThu, 14 Oct 2010 17:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19673964/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/14/mitsubishi-evo-gains-sportier-sounding-exhaust-new-equipment-fo/19673964/article-detail.xml 19673964 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01-evo-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01-evo-630.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Pro wakeboarders jump floating Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/16/video-pro-wakeboarders-jump-floating-mitsubishi-lancer-ralliart/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/16/video-pro-wakeboarders-jump-floating-mitsubishi-lancer-ralliart/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/16/video-pro-wakeboarders-jump-floating-mitsubishi-lancer-ralliart/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

When we think of the best possible ways to market a vehicle, somehow placing it on a floating platform and letting wakeboarders jump over it just doesn't crack the top 10. That didn't stop Mitsubishi from offering up an all-new Lancer Ralliart Sportback for All-ActionSports.com's mid-week wake up. Wakeboarders from all over the U.S. lined up to hit a ramp at full speed, jump over ten feet in the air while flipping and flopping over the Mitsubishi wagon.

Hit the jump to watch the skiing daredevils take on water, gravity and the Sportback at the same time.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Pro wakeboarders jump floating Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback

Video: Pro wakeboarders jump floating Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sportback originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 outlander sport2011OutlanderSportlancermitsubishi lancermitsubishi lancer ralliartmitsubishi outlander sportmitsubishi wakeboardingMitsubishiLancerMitsubishiLancerRalliartMitsubishiOutlanderSportMitsubishiWakeboardingwakeboarding contest mitsubishiWakeboardingContestMitsubishiThu, 16 Sep 2010 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19633714/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/16/video-pro-wakeboarders-jump-floating-mitsubishi-lancer-ralliart/19633714/article-detail.xml 19633714 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/outlander-jump_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/outlander-jump.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart takes aim at the competition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/28/review-2010-mitsubishi-lancer-sportback-ralliart-takes-aim-at-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/28/review-2010-mitsubishi-lancer-sportback-ralliart-takes-aim-at-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/28/review-2010-mitsubishi-lancer-sportback-ralliart-takes-aim-at-t/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart - Click above for high-res image gallery

There has always been a glaringly obvious gap in Mitsubishi's current Lancer lineup. On the bottom is the... Lancer, a biggish-for-its-class economy car that no one particularly likes - at least that's what the sales charts would indicate. It's slow, filled with cheap plastics and dull. It hasn't even proven to be all that reliable by Japanese small-car standards, but at least it looks good. At the top of the heap and on a wholly different plane sits the Lancer Evolution. It's the giant-slayer, David, the little car that humbles supercars. It's also the hottest of the rally-inspired all-wheel-drive turbocharged pocket rockets. The Evo's only real competition is the Subaru WRX STI and, let's be honest, the Evo has been the better car for years now (Subaru has just updated its warrior for 2011, so a new comparison is in order). Its handling is more precise, yet at the same time more insane. The Mitsu is rawer, rougher, tougher and most importantly faster, even though it's down half a liter on the WRX STI in terms of displacement. Don't read this wrong, the STI is a fine backroad killer. But the EVO is more homicidal.

It looks like a toned down Evo, which is exactly what Mitsubishi wants you to think.
Back to that gap. In the middle of its arch rival's portfolio has long lived the WRX, Subaru's Goldie Loxian sportster, which is very fast, very nimble, but very well priced (it still starts at under $25,000). The WRX has long threaded the needle between excellent all-around performance and the customer not being able to afford a higher monthly payment. Subaru, therefore, has sold a ton of them, for not only does the WRX offer all that power and rally-bred oomph at a low price, it can be had as a wagon. Mitsubishi had nothing until this year, when the Japanese industrial powerhouse brought over two new flavors of its hopped-up Lancer, the Ralliart and the Ralliart Sportback.

Today we're taking a look at the supposedly more practical of those two additions, the five-door Sportback. When the pictures of the Lancer Sportback Ralliart started spilling onto this here internet, Yours Truly was especially excited. The main reason being that for the past eight years, I've owned a WRX wagon in one form or another. Biased? You could say that, but at that same time, I've been driving Evos against STIs and have remained aware (perhaps painfully aware) that the Evo is the sharper blade. Perhaps, then, the Sportback Ralliart could be my next fast and furious wagon, or at least go wheel-to-wheel with its competition from Fuji Heavy Industries? Hop the jump to find out.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart


Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Review: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart takes aim at the competition

Review: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart takes aim at the competition originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 mitsubishi2010Mitsubishiall-wheel driveAll-wheelDriveawdfeaturedhot hatchHotHatchlancerlancer ralliartlancer sportbacklancer sportback ralliartLancerRalliartLancerSportbackLancerSportbackRalliartmitsumitsubish lancer sportback ralliartmitsubishimitsubishi lancer ralliartMitsubishiLancerRalliartMitsubishLancerSportbackRalliartpocket rocketPocketRocketralliartrallyartreviewreviewssportbackSportback Ralliartsportback ralliart reviewsportback+ralliartSportbackRalliartSportbackRalliartReviewWed, 28 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19567989/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/28/review-2010-mitsubishi-lancer-sportback-ralliart-takes-aim-at-t/19567989/article-detail.xml 19567989 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lead1lancersbralliartreview_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lead1lancersbralliartreview.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi Lancer earns Top Safety Pick award, first Mitsubishi to pass new rollover test [*UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/22/mitsubishi-lancer-earns-top-safety-pick-award-first-small-car-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/22/mitsubishi-lancer-earns-top-safety-pick-award-first-small-car-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/22/mitsubishi-lancer-earns-top-safety-pick-award-first-small-car-t/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Mitsubishi Lancer ES - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has named the Mitsubishi Lancer one of its top safety picks. The four-door sedan managed to be the first Mitsubishi that the Institute has tested to pass the new roll-over test with a "good" rating. As much as we like entertaining ourselves by thinking about the researchers flipping a bevy of cars and SUVs from 9-to-5, that isn't quite how the institute tests for rollover strength.

Instead, a large metal plate exerts a steady force on the roof of a vehicle until the crash structure deflects by five inches. At that point, the boffins measure the amount of force it took to bend the roof and compare it to the overall weight of the vehicle. From there, a strength-to-weight ratio can be established. Currently, the federal government requires a vehicle's roof to be able to withstand 1.5 times the weight of the car, and in order for a vehicle to earn a "good" rollover rating from the IIHS, the roof needs to be able to stand up to four times the weight of the vehicle.


Gallery: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer ES


[Source: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]

Mitsubishi Lancer earns Top Safety Pick award, first Mitsubishi to pass new rollover test [*UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 Mitsubishi Lancer2010MitsubishiLancercrash testCrashTestIIHSInsurance Institute for Highway SafetyInsuranceInstituteForHighwaySafetyLancerlancer ESLancerEsmitsuMitsubishiMitsubishi LancerMitsubishiLancerrolloverrollover safetyRolloverSafetyroof testRoofTestThu, 22 Jul 2010 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19564641/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/22/mitsubishi-lancer-earns-top-safety-pick-award-first-small-car-t/19564641/article-detail.xml 19564641 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/2010-mitsubishi-lancer-es-white-f-3-4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/2010-mitsubishi-lancer-es-white-f-3-4.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Autocar</i>: Next Subaru STI to go diesel, rival Mitsubishi Evo going hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/11/autocar-next-subaru-sti-to-go-diesel-rival-mitsubishi-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/11/autocar-next-subaru-sti-to-go-diesel-rival-mitsubishi-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/11/autocar-next-subaru-sti-to-go-diesel-rival-mitsubishi-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

Rumblings about a diesel-powered Subaru WRX STI first surfaced more than two years ago, and now they're back. The realities of meeting CO2 emissions limits in Europe and elsewhere may have increased the likelihood of a high-performance diesel Subaru, and an oil-burning STI would probably generate at least 200 horsepower and well over 300 pound-feet of torque, suggests Autocar. According to the UK rumor-traffickers, gasoline engines will almost certainly remain in the mix, albeit with reduced displacement. A new engine based on the 1.5-liter boxer in the base Impreza could offer suitable power if mixed with other technologies like direct injection. Even if Subaru does indeed develop a diesel STI, there's no guarantee that such a model would ever make it to North America.

Of course, the WRX doesn't live in a vacuum. Its longtime rival, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo may also ditch the spark plugs and also add a hybrid system. Earlier plans for a gas hybrid were reportedly canceled in favor of the diesel. The plan is to retain the Evo's sophisticated all-wheel-drive for acceleration to 60 mph in under five seconds and CO2 emissions below 200 grams per kilometer. Thanks to everyone for the tips!


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition


[Source: Autocar, Autocar]

Autocar: Next Subaru STI to go diesel, rival Mitsubishi Evo going hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 subaru impreza wrx sti diesel2012SubaruImprezaWrxStiDieseldieseldiesel hybriddiesel-hybridDieselHybridEVOevo XIevolutionEvoXiimprezalancerlancer evoLancer evolutionLancerEvoLancerEvolutionmitsubishiMitsubishiLancerEvoDieselHybridSTIsuabaru impreza wrx sti dieselSuabaruImprezaWrxStiDieselSubaruSubaru ImprezaSubaru Impreza WRX STisubaru wrx stisubaru wrx sti dieselSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaWrxStiSubaruWrxStiSubaruWrxStiDieselWRXWRX STIWrxStiFri, 11 Jun 2010 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19512008/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/11/autocar-next-subaru-sti-to-go-diesel-rival-mitsubishi-e/19512008/article-detail.xml 19512008 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/22subarustisetracktest2010opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/22subarustisetracktest2010opt.jpg <![CDATA[KBB names coolest cars under $18k... do you agree?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/24/kbb-names-coolest-cars-under-18k-do-you-agree/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/24/kbb-names-coolest-cars-under-18k-do-you-agree/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/24/kbb-names-coolest-cars-under-18k-do-you-agree/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Kelley Blue Book Top 10 Cars for under $18k - Click above for high-res image gallery

Being in the market for a cheap new car used to mean resigning yourself to time bombs like the Chevrolet Citation or windups like the Geo Metro or Ford Aspire, but the times, they are a-changin', and the good folk at Kelley Blue Book have worked up their very own top 10 list of cool cars for under $18,000.

Not surprisingly, the 2011 Ford Fiesta nabbed a mention thanks to its 28 mpg city, 40 mpg highway EPA rating and mile-long standard feature list. Likewise, the new 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring received a spot on the list. The Korean automaker's new long roof manages 23 city and 30 mph mpg highway thanks to its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

The base Mitsubishi Lancer also made the cut - another 2.0-liter bruiser, the baby brother of the Evolution nabs 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Suzuki also got some love on the KBB list with its SX4. When optioned with the five-speed gearbox, the car walks away with 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Rounding out the list is the ever lovable 2010 Honda Fit. Just like the Suzuki, if you want a few more miles per tank, you'll need to opt for the manual transmission. Thusly equipped, the little Honda can 28 mpg city and up to 35 mpg highway.

Want to see what else made the list? Hit the jump or visit KBB for the whole list.

Gallery: Kelly Blue Book Top 10 Cool Cars


[Source: Kelley Blue Book]

Continue reading KBB names coolest cars under $18k... do you agree?

KBB names coolest cars under $18k... do you agree? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 May 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 hyundai elantra touring2010HyundaiElantraTouring20112011 Ford Fiesta2011FordFiestabuying guideBuyingGuideelantra touringElantraTouringFiestaFordFord FiestaFordFiestaHonda CivicHondaCivicHyundaihyundai elantra touringHyundaiElantraTouringkbbkelley blue bookKelleyBlueBookKia SoulKiaSoulLancermazda3MitsubishiMitsubishi LancerMitsubishiLancerNissan CubeNissanCubeScion xBScionXbSuzukiSuzuki SX4SuzukiSx4SX4Mon, 24 May 2010 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19488888/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/24/kbb-names-coolest-cars-under-18k-do-you-agree/19488888/article-detail.xml 19488888 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/01-kbb-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/01-kbb-630.jpg <![CDATA[Ralliart announces it is closing its doors... so what does that mean for Mitsubishi?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/10/ralliart-announces-it-is-closing-its-doors-so-what-does-that/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/10/ralliart-announces-it-is-closing-its-doors-so-what-does-that/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/10/ralliart-announces-it-is-closing-its-doors-so-what-does-that/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



In a letter issued to its customers, Ralliart, a Japanese high-performance subsidiary of Mitsubishi, has announced that it is closing its doors. The company's business case has apparently faded, a victim of the wilting domestic aftermarket scene as well as its lack of continued motorsports involvement.

Naturally, we wondered if and how the closure of the company responsible for its high-performance parts and related merchandise would impact the development, production and marketing of Mitsubishi vehicles sold here in the States - more specifically, the Lancer Ralliart and Sportback Ralliart models. To answer that question, we spoke with Mitsu spokesman Maurice Durand, and he informs us that the closure of Ralliart will not, in fact, have any affect on the availability or continued marketing of these models (or any future branded offerings), as Mitsubishi owns the rights to the name, logo, and so on. Furthermore, all licensing agreements in foreign countries remain intact.

So, while you may not be able to get a genuine JDM Ralliart strut-tower brace or shift knob, you can breath easy that the SportBack that you've been saving your lunch money for will still be at your local dealer by the time you've got enough scratch. Official press release after the jump.

Continue reading Ralliart announces it is closing its doors... so what does that mean for Mitsubishi?

Ralliart announces it is closing its doors... so what does that mean for Mitsubishi? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanese tuningJapaneseTuningJDMJDM tuningJdmTuningLancerLancer sportbacklancer sportback ralliartLancerSportbackLancerSportbackRalliartmaurice durandMauriceDurandMitsubishiRalliarttuner sceneTunerSceneWed, 10 Mar 2010 15:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19391300/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/10/ralliart-announces-it-is-closing-its-doors-so-what-does-that/19391300/article-detail.xml 19391300 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/lancer-ralliart-logo-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/lancer-ralliart-logo-630.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Mitsubishi looking to claw back to 100,000 sales in U.S. in three years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/26/report-mitsubishi-looking-to-claw-back-to-100-000-sales-in-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/26/report-mitsubishi-looking-to-claw-back-to-100-000-sales-in-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/26/report-mitsubishi-looking-to-claw-back-to-100-000-sales-in-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the healthy catches a cold, the sickly contract the flu. Over the past few years, Mitsubishi has been suffering from a degenerative case of bronchial pneumonia, with a side of strep and a nasty rash. In other, less contagious words, Mitsubishi has been faring very poorly during the industry's worst downturn in decades, and it's tough to say if the struggling Japanese automaker will ever leave the intensive care unit.

But to listen to John Koenig, executive vice president of Mitsubishi North America, that will all change over the next few years. Koenig has told Wards Automotive that he sees Mitsubishi hitting 100,000 sales in the U.S. within three years. Mitsubishi only sold 53,986 vehicles in 2009, down 44.5 percent compared to a still depressing 2008, and that's only one sixth of the Japanese automaker's 345,111 U.S. sales in 2002. Koenig says he's had to reassure dealers that Mitsubishi isn't leaving the North American market, adding "that's probably their biggest fear, because they're reading about it in various journals."

To get out of its sales rut, Mitsubishi plans to bolster sales with the help of the 2010 Outlander, a vehicle that we found to be pretty entertaining and capable. Koenig also points to the current Lancer as another vehicle that could help turn sales around.

Will Mitsubishi return to sales of 100,000 units a year in the States? It's difficult to say, really, but given the automaker's performance over the past few years, we're not all that optimistic. The good news though is that most sales problems can easily be cured with good products, and if the Outlander is as good as we think it is we're thinking, Mitsubishi has a shot at staying relevant - though they had better be readying a few new cannons in their arsenal.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT


[Source: Wards Automotive - sub. req.]

Continue reading Report: Mitsubishi looking to claw back to 100,000 sales in U.S. in three years

Report: Mitsubishi looking to claw back to 100,000 sales in U.S. in three years originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lancer2010 Lancer evolution2010Lancer2010LancerEvolutionEVOevo xEvoXjohn koenigJohnKoeniglancermitsumitsubishimitsubishi salesMitsubishiSalesOutlanderus salesUsSalesTue, 26 Jan 2010 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19330851/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/26/report-mitsubishi-looking-to-claw-back-to-100-000-sales-in-u-s/19330851/article-detail.xml 19330851 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/outlandergtfd_01_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/outlandergtfd_01_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi Evo X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Potential corrosion of the front impact airbag sensor has prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to recall up to 29,353 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution models. NHTSA is concerned that long-term exposure to a mixture of melted snow and salt thrown up by other vehicles on the road may cause the wintery mixture to adhere to the front impact sensor and lead to corrosion over time. In the event of an accident or collision, a damaged sensor may short-circuit and delay airbag deployment possibly causing driver or passenger injury. The recall is currently limited to states where heavy road salt is used in the winter (i.e., Connecticut, New York, Wisconsin, etc...).

Mitsubishi dealers have been instructed to replace the airbag sensors with a redesigned model with improved corrosion resistance. Of course, the service will be performed at no charge. While the safety recall isn't scheduled to begin until November 27, 2009, owners may contact Mitsubishi Customer Relations at 888-648-7820, contact NHTSA's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or visit NHTSA on the Internet at www.safercar.gov. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X


[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Continue reading Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors

Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 mitsubishi lancer2008 mitsubishi lancer es2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X2008MitsubishiLancer2008MitsubishiLancerEs2008MitsubishiLancerEvolution2008MitsubishiLancerEvolutionX2009 mitsubishi lancer ralliart2009MitsubishiLancerRalliartAir Bagairbagauto recallAutoRecallcar recallCarRecallcorrosionEVOEvo XevolutionEvoXLancerlancer EVOlancer evolutionLancerEvoLancerEvolutionMitsumitsubishimitsubishi recallMitsubishiLancerMitsubishiRecallNHTSA RecallNhtsaRecallRecallSafety RecallSafetyRecallsaltTue, 17 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19243064/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/19243064/article-detail.xml 19243064 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/08_lancer_630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/08_lancer_630.jpg -1 2